Mixed response to Torness extension

Torness Power Station, Dunbar, East Lothian.

Published:14:37Thursday 18 February 2016

Scottish Greens have hit out at the lack of public consultation after French multinational EDF Energy announced the operating life of the Torness nuclear plant would be extended by seven years from 2023 to 2030.

Sarah Beattie-Smith, infrastructure and investment spokesperson and MSP candidate for South of Scotland, said: “The announcement from EDF to extend the life of Torness is bad news for East Lothian and bad for Scotland. The fact that a private company can dictate energy policy for another seven years undermines democracy, both in the local community in East Lothian and nationally at a time when the Scottish Government ought to be focused on our ambitious climate targets.

“Torness is almost 30 years old and we should be planning for its decommissioning. ”

Meanwhile, Dunbar and East Linton councillor Michael Veitch said: “I am absolutely delighted by this announcement. Torness is the major employer in my ward, and is a tremendous asset to Dunbar.”